Compact pivoting input device

ABSTRACT

An input device includes an input structure, a magnet attached to the input structure, and an electromagnet. The magnet rotates when the electromagnet is activated, thereby rotating the input structure. The magnet and input structure rotate about a pivot in order to provide haptic and/or visual feedback to a user. The pivot may attach the magnet and input structure to a body, which in turn may be affixed to, or part of, an electronic device. The electromagnet can encircle the body and/or magnet.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a nonprovisional patent application of and claimsthe benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/652,242, filedApr. 3, 2018 and titled “Compact Pivoting Input Device,” the disclosureof which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

The described embodiments relate generally to input mechanisms forelectronic device, and more particularly to input surfaces that pivotabout a pivot point beneath the input surface, in response to an inputprovided on the input surface.

BACKGROUND

Many traditional electronics include buttons, switches, keys, or othertypes of components as input devices. It is desirable that input devicesprovide haptic feedback to a user.

Many traditional input devices are mechanical buttons. Mechanicalbuttons are generally reliable and provide inherent haptic feedback, asa user can often feel the mechanism of the button moving, for examplebetween button positions. However, mechanical switches typically haveset haptic outputs or feedback, dictated by their design. Also, aselectronic devices have become more space-constrained, mechanicalbuttons have presented problems and design limitations. Many mechanicalswitches need a minimum amount of space to operate. For example, atypical dome switch needs about 200 microns of travel for the dome tocollapse and close the switch. This is especially problematic in verythin electronic devices.

Pivoting input structures may allow increased haptic design flexibilityand may allow the haptics to change with environmental or useconditions. A pivoting button may provide an adjustable haptic feedbackto the user. Also, pivoting input structures may greatly reduce requiredspace and particularly travel. Many pivoting buttons travel 10 micronsor less when force is exerted thereon. Pivoting buttons can use forcesensors to determine when the button is pressed, for example. The forcesensor registers a change in capacitance, resistance, current, voltage,or other electrical value when the pivoting button moves or flexes, eventhough such motion may be very small.

Many pivoting input structures, such as buttons, require physicalmovement of some portion of the input structure to register an inputand/or to trigger haptic feedback of a user input. Although the physicalmovement of pivoting systems is reduced to that of mechanical systems, apivoting system that does not require physical movement may combineseveral advantages of traditional mechanical switches and pivoting inputstructures. For example, a pivoting system devoid of vertical or inwardmovement may provide the increased reliability of mechanical buttonswith the lower profile and variable haptics of a pivoting system.

SUMMARY

One embodiment described herein takes the form of an input device foruse with an electronic device comprising: a button; a force sensorconfigured to sense an input on the button; a permanent magnet attachedto the button; a body; a pivot coupling the body to the button; and anelectromagnet adjacent the permanent magnet; wherein the electromagnetis configured to generate a magnetic field in response to the forcesensor sensing the input, thereby rotating the permanent magnet and thebutton about the pivot to provide haptic feedback.

Another embodiment described herein takes the form of an electronicdevice, comprising: an enclosure defining an opening; a body attached tothe enclosure; a button extending through the opening and defining aninput surface, the body pivotally attached to the button; a sensorconfigured to detect an input on the input surface; a permanent magnetattached to the button and positioned within the enclosure; and anelectromagnet attached to the body, positioned within the enclosure, andencircling the permanent magnet; wherein the button is configured toprovide haptic feedback.

Still another embodiment takes the form of an input device, comprising:an input structure defining an input surface; a sensor configured todetect a force on the input surface; a pivot below the input surface andabout which the input structure rotates; and an actuator configured torotate the input structure about the pivot; wherein: rotation of theinput structure moves the input surface substantially transverse to adirection of the force.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detaileddescription in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein likereference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates one example of an electronic device with a pivotinginput device;

FIG. 2 illustrates a sample input device that pivots in response to aninput force, rather than translating;

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of a sample pivoting input device,implemented as a button;

FIG. 3B is a second cross-sectional view of the sample pivoting inputdevice of FIG. 3A, taken along line 3B-3B of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is a sample view of one embodiment of a pivoting input device inan unactuated state;

FIG. 4B is a cross-section view of the pivoting input device of FIG. 3Ataken along line 4B-4B;

FIG. 4C is a cross-section view of the pivoting input device of FIG. 3Ain an actuated state;

FIG. 5A is a sample side view of another embodiment of a pivoting inputdevice in an unactuated state;

FIG. 5B is a cross-section view of the pivoting input device of FIG. 4Ataken along line 4B-4B;

FIG. 5C is a cross-section view of the pivoting input device of FIG. 4Ain an actuated state;

FIG. 6 is a sample cross-section view of another embodiment of apivoting input device fitted to an enclosure of an electronic device;

FIG. 7 is a sample exploded view of a pivoting input device;

FIG. 8A is shows another embodiment of a pivoting input device;

FIG. 8B is a cross-section view of the pivoting input device of FIG. 8Ataken along line 8A-8B;

FIG. 9A shows another embodiment of a pivoting input device;

FIG. 9B is a cross-section view of the pivoting input device of FIG. 9Ataken along line 9B-9B;

FIG. 10A shows yet another embodiment of a pivoting input device;

FIG. 10B is a cross-section view of the pivoting input device of FIG.10A taken along line 10B-10B;

FIG. 11A is a sample side view of another embodiment of a pivoting inputdevice;

FIG. 11B is a sample side view of another embodiment of a pivoting inputdevice;

FIG. 11C is a sample side view of another embodiment of a pivoting inputdevice;

FIG. 11D is a sample side view of another embodiment of a pivoting inputdevice;

FIG. 11E is a sample side view of another embodiment of a pivoting inputdevice; and

FIG. 12 is a sample block diagram of a pivoting input device andassociated electronic components.

The use of cross-hatching or shading in the accompanying figures isgenerally provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elementsand also to facilitate legibility of the figures. Accordingly, neitherthe presence nor the absence of cross-hatching or shading conveys orindicates any preference or requirement for particular materials,material properties, element proportions, element dimensions,commonalities of similarly illustrated elements, or any othercharacteristic, attribute, or property for any element illustrated inthe accompanying figures.

Additionally, it should be understood that the proportions anddimensions (either relative or absolute) of the various features andelements (and collections and groupings thereof) and the boundaries,separations, and positional relationships presented there between, areprovided in the accompanying figures merely to facilitate anunderstanding of the various embodiments described herein and,accordingly, may not necessarily be presented or illustrated to scale,and are not intended to indicate any preference or requirement for anillustrated embodiment to the exclusion of embodiments described withreference thereto.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodimentsillustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood thatthe following descriptions are not intended to limit the disclosure toany preferred or particular embodiments. To the contrary, it is intendedto cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be includedwithin the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined bythe appended claims.

As used herein, the term “input device” refers generally to a set ofelements to cooperate to provide a signal to an electronic device inresponse to an input. The term “input structure” refers generally to aspecific element that accepts a touch, force, or the like as an input.The term “input surface” refers to the portion of the input structurewith which a user interacts to provide or initiate an input. An “input”is any interaction with an input surface (and thus an associated inputstructure and input device) provided by a user that results in thegeneration of a signal to the electronic device. Thus, touch, force,motion, gaze, and the like are all different types of inputs that mayoperate with different input surfaces, structures, and/or devices.

Embodiments described herein relate generally to an input device thatpivots about a pivot point in response to an input force. The pivotpoint is generally located beneath the input surface of the inputdevice. Further, the pivot point is generally in line (or nearly inline) with a direction in which an input is exerted or otherwiseprovided. The input device (or at least the input structure) generallypivots about the pivot point in response to the input. Insofar as theinput device or structure rotates about the pivot point, its motion maybe decomposed into two vectors along two axes. A “major” or “primary”vector of a force is the largest vector of a decomposed force.Generally, the major vector of the input device's rotation is transverseto the direction in which the input is provided rather than parallel. Asused herein, “transverse” means perpendicular to, or at a substantiallyright angle to, the input force. Thus, the input device (or inputstructure) does not primarily move in the direction of the input butinstead primarily perpendicular to it, or along it. Put another way, themajor vector of a haptic output force is tangential to a surfaceexerting the input force.

In many embodiments, the input device may move in order to providehaptic output. The input itself may not perceptibly displace the inputdevice, but instead an actuator may move the input device, or the inputstructure or input surface, in response to the input. Any displacementcaused by the force of an input may be negligible or imperceptible to atypical person. Such negligible or imperceptible displacement may beless than 50 microns in some embodiments, less than 25 microns in someembodiments, less than 10 microns in some embodiments, or even less thanfive microns in some embodiments. Put another way, primary and/orperceptible motion of an input device (or input structure, or inputsurface) results not directly from an input exerted thereon but insteadfrom an actuator's operation. The actuator may move the input structure(or, in some cases, the input device) when an input is sensed. Asmentioned above, this motion may be primarily transverse to a directionin which an input is exerted or otherwise provided.

In sum, certain embodiments described herein may: sense an input forceon an input surface of an input structure; rotate the input structureabout a pivot, thereby moving the input surface transverse to the inputforce; and initiate an input to an associated electronic device.Generally, motion of the input surface is also tangential to a user'sfinger, or to whatever object is exerting the input force. It should beappreciated that rotating the input structure and initiating the inputgenerally happen in response to sensing the input force.

Any of a variety of actuators may be used to pivot an input structure,and in many embodiments the actuator is part of the input device. Inothers, the actuator may be separate from the input device.

Thus, not only is the motion of input structures/devices discussedherein different from typical hinged structures that collapse or moveprimarily in a direction of an exerted force, but a person interactingwith input devices described herein experiences an entirely differentsensation. Embodiments described herein effectively create a hapticsensation through skin shear (e.g., lateral or tangential movement ofskin induced by the input surface) rather than having the input surfacepress into or compress skin. Embodiments described herein may harnessthis tangential motion of the input device relative to a user's skin toprovide unique, highly controllable, complex haptic outputs to a person.Further, the energy required to pivot an input structure may be lessthan the energy required to translate it.

One sample embodiment described herein is an electromagnetic pivotinginput device for use in an electronic device. An electromagneticpivoting input device may be actuated in response to a relatively smallmovement as compared to a traditional mechanical input device (such as abutton with a dome switch). Additionally, electromagnetic pivoting inputdevices may move laterally with respect to an enclosure or other surfacethrough which the input device protrudes, thereby reducing internalvolume necessary to operate the input device. Further, such a device mayprovide variable or controllable haptic feedback to a user of the inputdevice.

A sample input device may include a button or other input structuredefining an input surface. The button (or other input structure) and anassociated permanent magnet are affixed to, and pivot on or around, astructural body. An adjacent electromagnet generates a magnetic fieldthat displaces the permanent magnet, in turn pivoting the button betweena neutral, unactuated first button position and an actuated, secondbutton position. As the button actuates, the input surface may pivotwith the button. A user touching the input surface will feel thepivoting or actuation of the button and thus receive haptic feedbackthat the button has actuated. Furthermore, the user may be able to seethe pivoting of the button between the neutral unactuated first positionand the actuated second position. It should be appreciated that thedistance the button pivots may be small enough that itsrotational/pivoting motion is indistinguishable to a user from a lateralmotion (e.g., translation into or out of an enclosure of an electronicdevice).

A permanent magnet is a material or an object made from a material thatcreates a persistent magnetic field. A permanent magnet has a pair ofopposing magnetic poles, termed a north and a south magnetic pole.Magnetic field lines run between the two opposing magnetic poles. Apermanent magnet will attract metallic materials, and may also attractor repel another magnet, depending on the polarity of the magnets. Apermanent magnet is influenced by a magnetic field, meaning a permanentmagnet may be displaced by an external magnetic field.

An electromagnet is a device which generates a magnetic field by way ofan electric current. Ampere's law provides that an electric currentflowing in a wire generates a magnetic field. Such a magnetic fielddissipates and eventually stops when the electric current stops flowing.A typical electromagnet is formed from a wire coil. It creates amagnetic field that encircles the coil and is strongest within the coil.The configuration of the electromagnet determines the character of thegenerated magnetic field. For example, the materials of theelectromagnet, the geometry of the electromagnet such as the number ofturns in the coil windings, and the current running in the coiled wire,will influence the generated magnetic field.

In one embodiment, a permanent magnet is attached below a button andpositioned to fit within an interior of an electromagnet (such as in aspace defined by windings of a coil). The permanent magnet and buttonare on opposing sides of a pivot.

The windings define a height of the electromagnet and an interior volumewithin the electromagnet. When the electromagnet is not operating,meaning no electric current is flowing through the wire windings andthus no magnetic field is generated, the permanent magnet is in aneutral position approximately in the middle of the interior volume. Thebutton likewise is in a neutral position such that the input surface ishorizontal (or substantially horizontal) with respect to a major axis ofthe input device. However, when the electromagnet is turned on, aresulting magnetic field moves the permanent magnet within the interiorvolume. More specifically, the permanent magnet rotates about the pivotsuch that it moves closer to one side of the interior of the interiorvolume of the wire windings of the electromagnet. The magnet's motioncauses the button to rotate about the pivot as well, moving in anopposite direction to the motion of the permanent magnet. Put anotherway, while the magnet and button both rotate in the same direction,their directions of motion are opposite one another. Thus, the button'sinput surface tilts relative to the major axis (and typically, thoughnot necessarily, relative to an enclosure of an electronic deviceincorporating the input device).

The button may be positioned in, or protrude from, an opening defined inan exterior surface of an electronic device, such that the input surfaceis accessible by a user. The button may be conformal with the exteriorsurface, or may project from the exterior surface of the electronicdevice. In one embodiment, the input surface is substantially aligned orparallel with an adjacent exterior surface of the electronic device whenthe button is in the neutral position. The button input surface may betilted with respect to the adjacent exterior surface when the button isin the actuated position.

In one embodiment, the input is oblong-shaped and is positioned along anexterior edge of an electronic device, such as a mobile phone. The inputdevice may be or include a key, switch, toggle, or the like instead of abutton.

The button may actuate in any of several ways. For example, the inputdevice may have a major axis, a minor axis, and a pivot axis such thatthe button rotates about a pivot axis and within a plane defined by themajor axis and the minor axis. In some embodiments, the button may slideor translate along one or both of the major and minor axes.Alternatively or additionally, the major or minor axes may also be thepivot axis. In many embodiments, the pivot axis is parallel to the inputsurface.

In some embodiments and as described in more detail herein, the pivotaxis may be adjustable. By adjusting the pivot axis of the inputstructure, the distance the input surface moves may be changed. As thepivot axis moves further away from the input surface, the traveldistance of the input surface increases. Increased travel distanceyields greater (and more easily sensed) haptic output, and likewiseincreases a velocity of the input surface. Some embodiments may permit auser to choose a distance of the pivot point from the input surface inorder to customize a feel and/or magnitude of haptic output by adjustingthe travel distance and/or velocity of the input surface.

In one embodiment, although the button may actuate, the actuation is notrequired to register a button input for the electronic device. Statedanother way, the physical movement or actuation of the button is notrequired to initiate or terminate an input. Instead, the buttonactuation may be effected, for example, to provide a type of hapticfeedback to the user.

Various configurations of a permanent magnet and an electromagnet aredisclosed. By varying the relative positions of the permanent magnet andthe electromagnet, and/or by varying the configuration of theelectromagnet, the strength and/or location of the magnetic fieldrelative to the permanent magnet varies, which in turn adjusts the inputdevice's actuation kinematics. For example, a permanent magnetpositioned closer to a relatively higher strength magnetic field area,as generated by the electromagnet, will be relatively more responsive tothe magnetic field, and thus the attached button will be relatively moreresponsive to the electromagnet. Generally, a more responsive buttonreacts faster and with fewer time lags to an actuation input.

In another embodiment, a permanent magnet is coupled to a buttonpositioned to fit at least partially within or above an electromagnet.The button is configured to rotate, pivot, slide or otherwise move on orabout a structural body placed within an electronic device. Thepermanent magnet, when in its neutral position, extends approximately tothe middle of the interior volume of the electromagnet (e.g., an end ofthe permanent magnet is positioned within the interior volume). Theelectromagnet produces a magnetic field extending upward and across orthrough the permanent magnet, resulting in a force that moves thepermanent magnet. More specifically, the permanent magnet moves relativeto an upper surface of the electromagnet and closer to one edge of theinterior volume of the electromagnet wire windings. This secondpermanent magnet position corresponds to an actuated second buttonposition.

In another embodiment of an input device described herein, a permanentmagnet is coupled to a button and rests at least partially within anelectromagnet. The button is attached to the permanent magnet. Thebutton, in concert with the permanent magnet, is configured to pivot ona structural body. The permanent magnet typically has an axis that isparallel with a pivot axis of the input device. The permanent magnetrotates about the pivot axis in response to the electromagnet generatinga magnetic field, in turn rotating or pivoting the button about thestructural body.

In another embodiment, a permanent magnet attached below a button ispositioned to fit within an electromagnet, the electromagnet formed by aset of wire windings. The button is attached to the permanent magnet.The button and permanent magnet are configured to pivot on a structuralbody placed within an electronic device. The permanent magnet ispositioned such that one end rests within an interior volume of theelectromagnet. The permanent magnet is positioned in a neutral positionwithin the interior volume of the electromagnet, with the lateral sidesof the permanent magnet aligned with interior sides of the encircledelectromagnet. The configuration of the electromagnet produces, when acurrent is flowing through the windings of the electromagnet, a magneticfield extending vertically along the sides of the permanent magnet. Thegenerated magnetic field imparts a torque force to the permanent magnet.The permanent magnet rotates about the pivot axis upon receipt of amagnetic field, as generated by the electromagnet. The rotation of thepermanent magnet results in rotation of the button.

In some embodiments, the button may also include a force sensor. Theforce sensor may be coupled the electromagnet or permanent magnet, ormay be affixed to another part of the input device and/or associatedelectronic device. The force sensor may be a Hall Effect sensor, strainsensor, capacitive sensor, resistive sensor, pyroelectric sensor, oroptical sensor.

Electronic circuits, processors, and/or electro-mechanical systems maycontrol or adjust the magnetic field generated by the electromagnet,which in turn controls or adjusts the actuation of the input device. Forexample, the amount of current passing through the electromagnet willdetermine the magnitude of the generated magnetic field, which in turnwill determine the kinematics of the button actuation. A processor mayalso communicate with one or more sensors coupled to the input surface,such as input force sensors, touch sensors, and proximity sensors.

Generally, an “input surface” is any surface configured to receive aninput, such as a force or touch. An input surface may be a surface of an“input structure,” which is an element configured to accept an input,such as a touch or force, from a user or object. An input structure maybe one element of an “input device,” which is any device configured toreceive an input and facilitate generating an output in response. Sampleinput devices may incorporate input structures such as a button, aswitch, a key, a trackpad plate, a mouse, and so on. In someembodiments, an edge, side, or other external portion of an electronicdevice housing may be a single input device, or may be formed frommultiple input devices.

These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to FIGS.1-12. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that thedetailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is forexplanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

FIG. 1 illustrates a sample electronic device that may incorporate apivoting input device, as described herein. Although a mobile phone isshown in FIG. 1, other embodiments may take forms of other electronicdevices. Other types of computing or electronic devices can include alaptop computer, desktop computer, tablet computing device, wearablecomputing or display device (such as a watch, glasses, jewelry, clothingor the like), a digital camera, a printer, a scanner, a video recorder,a copier, a touch screen, and so on.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an electronic device 100, hereconfigured as a mobile phone. The electronic device 100 is depicted as amobile phone with pivoting input device 101, an enclosure 120, and adisplay 103. A button of the input device 101 extends through a sidewallof the electronic device. The electronic device 100 may include avariety of internal components configured to work with the pivotinginput device 101.

The display 103 can be implemented with any suitable technology, takingthe form of an LCD display, LED display, CCFL display, OLED display, andso on. The display 103 provides a graphical output, for exampleassociated with an operating system, user interface, and/or applicationsof the electronic device 100. Functions of the electronic device 100,including the display of information, graphics, and the like on thedisplay 103, may be modified in response to an input provided via thepivoting input device 101. As some non-limiting example, providing inputthrough the pivoting input device 101, may wake or sleep the display,may scroll a list of icons (or other information) on the display, maychange a state or parameter of the electronic device 100, may cause agraphic, icon, or other information shown on the display 103 to bemodified in some fashion (such as becoming bigger, smaller, appearing,disappearing, and so on), or the like.

In various embodiments, a graphical output of the display 103 isresponsive to inputs provided in response to the pivoting input device101. The enclosure 120 provides a device structure and houses devicecomponents, such as a processor. In various embodiments, the enclosure120 may be constructed from similar materials to the enclosure 120 ofFIG. 1. FIG. 12, discussed below, provides additional details of asample electronic device.

FIG. 2 shows a sample schematic of a pivoting input device 200. Theinput device 200 includes an input structure 210 and pivot 220. An inputforce 230 may be exerted on an input surface 250 of the input structure210. A force sensor 240 may detect the input force 230.

The input structure 210 may rotate about the pivot 220 either clockwiseor counterclockwise, as shown by the directional arrows 270 a, 270 b. Asthe input structure 210 rotates, the input surface 250 movessubstantially transverse (e.g., perpendicularly) to the direction inwhich the input force 230 is exerted. Although the input surface 250rotates about the pivot point, a major vector 260 of its motion istransverse to the input force 230 as shown. This transverse motion mayinduce skin shear in a finger or other body part of a user touching theinput surface 250, which may register to the user as a haptic input.

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of an input device 300 similar to thatshown in FIG. 2, here implemented as a button for an electronic device.The button 300 may be at least partially contained within, and protrudefrom, a housing 380 of the electronic device. As shown, in response toan input force the input surface 350 moves primarily tangentially orlaterally to the surface of the finger 390 touching the surface, whichis also substantially transverse to the input force. The input surface350 is the top of a button (e.g., input structure) 310. The buttonrotates about the pivot 320; this rotational motion induces theaforementioned transverse motion of the input surface 350 as illustratedby the directional arrows. A gasket 360 may provide a seal between theinput structure 310 and the housing 380 against dust, water, and debris.

FIG. 3B is a second cross-sectional view of the input device 300 shownin FIG. 3A, taken along line 3B-3B in FIG. 3A. The cross-sectional viewof FIG. 3B is offset by 90 degrees from the cross-sectional view of FIG.3A. As shown in FIG. 3B, a cap or upper portion of the button 310 mayrest on a gasket 360. The gasket may not provide physical support to thebutton, although in some embodiments it may. Rather, the button is heldin place by the pivot 320, which may be a pin running through a shaft ofthe button 310. The pivot 320 is secured to a mount 325. One mount 325is located at either end of the pivot 320. The mount is, in turn,affixed to a shelf 335 or other internal structure within the housing380. Thus, the input structure 310 is coupled to the shelf 335 thoughthe pivot 320 and mount 325.

An actuator 325 may be physically, electrically, and/or magneticallycoupled to the button 310 (e.g., input structure). In the embodimentshown in FIG. 3B, the actuator 325 is an electromagnet, although inother embodiments the actuator 325 may be a different mechanical,electrical, or magnetic element. The actuator 325 causes the button 310to rotate about the shaft running through the pivot 320, in response toan input force. Operation of sample actuators is discussed in moredetail below.

FIG. 3B also illustrates a number of alternative pivots 320A, 320B,320C. In some embodiments the location of the pivot 320 along the inputstructure 310 may be changed by a user or otherwise as a function of theelectronic device (or of software or firmware of the electronic device).Generally, the closer the pivot 320 is to the input surface 350, thesmaller the distance of travel of the input surface 350 is. The traveldistance (also referred to as “displacement” or “translation”) directlyimpacts the force imparted by the input surface 350 to a user's finger390 as well as the velocity of the input surface. Accordingly, thecloser the pivot 320 is to the input surface 350, the smaller and lessperceptible the haptic output may be. Thus, the location of the pivot320 along the shaft of the input structure 310 may be varied in order toadjust haptic output provided through the input surface 350. Forexample, if the input structure 310 rotates about pivot 320 c. thetravel distance of the input surface 350 is less than if the structurerotates about pivot 320 b, which in turn yields less travel for theinput surface 350 than if the input structure rotates about pivot 320 a.

The pivot 320 also only limits motion of the input structure 310 torotation, limiting or eliminating pure planar motion of the inputsurface 350. Further, the pivot 320 and mounts 325 cooperate to providestructural support for the input structure 310. Additionally, the pivot320 and mounts 325 ensure that the force of the haptic outputtransmitted through the input surface 350 and to the user does notdirectly oppose the input force. Rather the haptic output force isprimarily tangential (and, to some extent, in the same direction as) theinput force. Because the input structure 310 does not actively workdirectly against the input force, the amount of energy required for theactuator to produce the haptic output may be reduced as compared to anactuator that pushed “upward” or against an input force. This may reduceoverall power consumption of an electronic device incorporating an inputdevice 300.

FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate one embodiment of a pivoting input device 401.The pivoting input device 401 is depicted with button 410 (e.g., aninput structure) defining an input surface 412. A permanent magnet 426is attached to a lower surface of the button 410. The permanent magnet426 may be rigidly attached to the button 410, such that permanentmagnet 426 moves or displaces in concert with the button 410.

The button 410 rotates relative to the body 430 about a pair of pivots424 (or, in some embodiments, a single pivot). The pair of pivots 424are attached to body 430 and positioned on each of first and secondprojections 433, 434, both of which are part of the upper body 432. Eachof the two pivots 424 are positioned between a respective projection433, 434 and a lower surface of the button 410. Thus, the pivots 424 arebelow the button 410 (or other input structure) and its input surface412. More specifically, one pivot 424 is positioned between the firstprojection 433 and a first lower end of the button, and another pivot424 is positioned between the second projection 434 and a second lowerend of the button 410. One pivot 424 is disposed on the first projection433 and another pivot 424 is disposed on the second projection 434. Thepivot(s) 424 may rotate with respect to the body 430 or may bestationary while permitting the button 410 to rotate relative to thebody 430.

The input surface 412 of the button/input structure 410 may be touched,pressed, or otherwise interacted with by a user. In some embodiments,the input surface 410 may translate, deflect, bend, or otherwise move arelatively small distance in response to user input and/or in responseto a movement of the permanent magnet 426. In other embodiments, theinput surface 412 does not translate, deflect, bend, or otherwise movein response to a user input. Input may be detected through a forcesensor, touch sensor, or combination of the two. Such sensors are notshown for simplicity's sake.

The button 410 may include one or more steps or shelves. The one or moreshelves may aid in fitting the button to a host electronic device, suchas fitting the button 410 within an opening along an exterior of a hostelectronic device. The one or more shelves may receive a gasket, thegasket engaging one or more shelves. More description of the fitting ofthe button 410 to a host electronic device and/or to a gasket is foundbelow with respect to FIGS. 5A-5C, 6, and 7.

With attention to FIGS. 4A-4B, the button 410, in order from an upperportion (e.g., a portion extending from or facing an exterior of a hostelectronic device) portion to a lower portion (e.g., a portion extendinginto an interior of a host electronic device), includes an input surface412, first upper portion 413, collar 416, first shelf 418, and a secondshelf 420. The collar 416 is narrower and/or thinner than the firstupper portion 413 of the button 410. The collar 416 and first upperportion 413 of the button 410 may have the same general shape or may beof different shapes. As one example, both may be oblong (e.g.,lozenge-shaped). The collar 416 is positioned above or otherwisedisposed on the first shelf 418. Generally, the upper button portion413, collar 416, first shelf 418, and second shelf 420 may all be formedintegrally with one another or may be formed separately and affixed toone another.

The first shelf 418 of the button 410 is typically wider and/or longerthan the collar 416. In some embodiments, the first shelf 418 is ofsimilar or identical width to the first upper portion 413. The firstshelf 418 may have the same shape as either or both of the upper portion413 and collar 416, or may have a different shape.

The first shelf 418 and/or the collar 416 may receive a gasket (see, forexample, FIG. 7.) More specifically, the first shelf 418 and/or thecollar 416 may receive a gasket that encircles one or more of the firstshelf 418 and/or the collar 416. The first shelf 418 is positioned aboveor otherwise disposed on the second shelf 420. The first shelf 418 ispositioned between the collar 416 and the second shelf 420.

The second shelf 420 of the button 410 is generally wider and/or longerthan the first shelf 418. The second shelf 420 may have a similar shapeas one or more of the first upper portion 413, the collar 416, and thefirst shelf 418 of the button 410, or may be differently-shaped. Thesecond shelf 420 may receive a gasket (see, for example, FIG. 7.) Morespecifically, the second shelf 420 may receive a gasket that is disposedon the second shelf 420. The second shelf 420 is positioned below thefirst shelf 418. The second shelf 420 is positioned between the firstshelf 418 and connector 422.

Generally, the first shelf, collar, and second shelf cooperate to definea grove, annulus, or the like extending around a perimeter of the button410. A gasket or other seal may be seated in this groove, as discussedin more detail below and mentioned above.

The connector 422 is positioned below the second shelf 420 and connectsthe button 410 to the permanent magnet 426. The connector 422 may bepositioned at a central portion of the upper surface of the permanentmagnet 426. The connector 422 may be connected to the permanent magnet426 along substantially all of the length of an upper surface of thepermanent magnet 426. The permanent magnet may be rigidly connected tothe button 410 by way of the connector 422. In some embodiments, thepermanent magnet 426 extends into a space within the body 430. That is,the body may be hollow or may have multiple projections defining a spacereceiving at least part of the permanent magnet 430.

The body 430 includes an upper body 432 and a lower body 436. Each offirst projection 433 and second projection 434 are part of upper body432; the first and second projections define a volume or spacetherebetween in which part of the permanent magnet 426 rests. The upperbody 432 and a lower body 436 are separated by a region of reduced widthconfigured to receive an electromagnet 440. The body may be attached toan enclosure of the electronic device, or a structure within theenclosure.

The electromagnet 440 is configured to attach to body 430 and positionedrelative to the permanent magnet 426 such that a magnetic fieldgenerated by the electromagnet 440 is received by the permanent magnet426 sufficient to displace or move the permanent magnet 426. Theelectromagnet 440 encircles the body 430 (specifically, the first andsecond projections 433, 434 and is positioned between the upper body 432and the lower body 436. More specifically, the electromagnet 440 ispositioned to fit around a region of reduced width formed between theupper body 432 and the lower body 436. The electromagnet 440 has asidewall 446. Generally, the electromagnet 440 is located below thebutton 410 (or other input structure) and its input surface 412.

The positioning of the permanent magnet 426 relative to theelectromagnet 440 modifies the operation (e.g., actuation) of the button410. More specifically, the magnetic interaction between theelectromagnet 440 and the permanent magnet 426 is influenced by therelative positioning of the permanent magnet 426 with respect to theelectromagnet. In the embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C, the lower surface 428of the permanent magnet 426 is positioned between ends of theelectromagnet 440. Stated another way, a horizontal plane extending fromthe lower surface 428 of the permanent magnet 426 intersects a sidewallof the electromagnet 440. In one embodiment, the horizontal planeextending from the lower surface 428 of the permanent magnet 426intersects the sidewall 446 of the electromagnet 440 at a midpoint ofthe sidewall 446 (e.g., the end of the permanent magnet 426 is coplanarwith a midpoint of the sidewall 446). Thus, the permanent magnet 426extends halfway through the electromagnet 440.

In some embodiments, the permanent magnet 426 may be replaced by asecond electromagnet, or may be supplemented by a second electromagnet.Using an electromagnet in place of, or in addition to, the permanentmagnet 426 may facilitate fine control of the magnetic force exerted onthe button 410 (or other input structure), thereby likewise providingfine control of the force of the haptic output. It should be appreciatedthat haptic output via the button 410 or other input structure may beincreased by increasing the field strength of the second electromagnetor decreased by decreasing its field strength. Likewise, field strengthof the first electromagnet 440 may be varied to vary haptic output forceeven when a permanent magnet 426 is used instead of a secondelectromagnet.

Further, it should be noted that such variations in field strengthgenerally vary haptic output force, but not travel; a distance traveledby the input structure (e.g., button 410) and associated input surfacevaries with the distance of the pivot point from the input surface, asdiscussed above. Increases in both haptic output force and traveldistance may increase force and/or perceptibility of a haptic output.

The electromagnet 440 is formed of multiple windings of wire. In oneembodiment, the windings of wire comprise copper. In some embodiments,the windings of wire include any of copper, aluminum, metals, and/or ormetal alloys that may be used as wire windings to generate a magneticfield, as known to those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, thestrength of the magnetic field generated by the electromagnet 440 issupplemented with placement of a core material within the interiorvolume of an electromagnet formed by windings of wire. Such a magneticcore may be made of, for example, a ferromagnetic material such as iron.A magnetic core increases the strength of a generated magnetic field.Such a magnetic core may be inserted in any of several ways, such as oneor more plates positioned within the interior volume of a wire-woundedelectromagnet.

With attention to FIGS. 4B-4C, the button 410, and attached permanentmagnet 426, are depicted in a neutral, unactuated first button position(as shown in FIG. 4B, which is a cross-section taken along line 4A-4A ofFIG. 4A) and in an actuated second button position (FIG. 4C). The button410 actuates or pivots between the first button position and the secondbutton position through reaction of the permanent magnet 428 to amagnetic field generated by the electromagnet 440.

The button 410 is attached to the permanent magnet 426 by way ofconnector 422; in many embodiments, the ends of the connector 422 definethe pivots 424. The button 410 is configured to pivot on the body 430 byway of the pair of pivots 424. In other embodiments, the connector andpivot(s) may be separate elements. The body 430, permanent magnet 426,and electromagnet 440 may be disposed within a host electronic device.

The electromagnet 440, which may encircle at least a portion of thepermanent magnet 426, generates a magnetic field which interacts withthe permanent magnet 426, in turn pivoting the button 410 between aneutral, unactuated first button position and an actuated, second buttonposition as discussed in more detail below.

When no electric current is flowing through the wire windings of theelectromagnet 440, no magnetic field is generated by the electromagnet440 and the permanent magnet 426 is in a neutral position that isapproximately in the middle of the electromagnet's interior volume 444,as shown in FIG. 4B, with one end within the interior volume. Thiscorresponds to a neutral, unactuated first button position. However,when the electromagnet 440 is turned on, the resulting magnetic fieldmoves (e.g., tilts) the permanent magnet 426 within the interior volume444. More specifically, the permanent magnet 426 tilts or rotates aboutthe pivot(s) 423, 424 such that its end 428 moves closer to one side ofthe electromagnet 44, as shown in FIG. 43C. Since the button 410 isattached to the permanent magnet 426, it also moves about the pivot(s)in a direction opposite the motion of the permanent magnet. Put anotherway, the button (or other input surface) and permanent magnet bothrotate in the same direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise) butmove in opposite directions, since they are positioned on opposing sidesof the pivot(s). Thus, when the electromagnet is activated, the button410 moves into an actuated position. This motion may provide hapticfeedback to a person touching the button 410 (and typically, thebutton's input surface 412) to indicate the input device 401 has beenactuated. In some embodiments, the button 410 and permanent magnet 426may oscillate back and forth about the pivot 424 to provide hapticfeedback.

The permanent magnet 426, when influenced by the magnetic field, movesfrom its neutral position (as shown in FIG. 4B) to its actuatedposition, as shown in FIG. 4C. In its neutral position, the permanentmagnet's 426 centerline is generally aligned with a major axis of theinput device 401, as is a centerline of the button 410. In the actuatedposition shown in FIG. 4C, the centerline of the button 412 andpermanent magnet 426 is offset from the major axis 439 of the inputdevice 401 by an angle 411. The angle between the centerline of thebutton 412 and the major axis 439 is generally the same as the anglebetween the centerline of the permanent magnet 426 and the major axis439.

The button/permanent magnet centerline 419 and the major axis 439intersect at a pivot point 425. The pivot point 425 is positioned at thebottom of a pivot 424; the pivot 424 is not visible in FIGS. 4B-4C butis shown in FIG. 4A. The permanent magnet 426, and thus the button 410,rotates about the pivot point in a plane defined by the major axis 439and the minor axis 441 of the input device 401. Typically, although notnecessarily, the major axis 439 passes through the input surface 412 andbutton 410, while the minor axis 441 is parallel to the input surfaceand button. Likewise, the pivot axis (which passes through the pivotpoint 425) is generally parallel to the input surface.

The direction of rotation about the pivot point 425 may change with thedirection of current passing through the electromagnet 440; thus, thebutton 410 and permanent magnet 426 may both rotate in two directions(e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise about the pivot point 425). Aspreviously mentioned, the permanent magnet 426 and button 410 generallymove in opposite directions while rotating about the pivot point 425 andany associated pivot(s) 424.

A user receives haptic feedback from the button 410 actuation in thatthe input surface 412 of the button 410 pivots with the button 410. Auser touching the input surface 412 may sense the pivoting or actuationof the button 410. Furthermore, the user may be able to see the pivotingof the button 410 from the neutral, unactuated first position to theactuated, second position.

The button 410 (or other input structure) may include a force sensor 417below the input surface 412 and within the upper portion 413; the forcesensor is shown in FIG. 4B, although it should be appreciated that thelocation of the force sensor 417 may vary in alternative embodiments.For example, the force sensor 417 may be positioned below the inputsurface 412 and the upper portion 413 instead of within the upperportion, or may be positioned below or to the side of the permanentmagnet 426, or anywhere else within the input device (or on a portion ofan associated electronic device's enclosure). The force sensor 417senses an input force on the input surface 412 and produces an outputsignal. The force sensor 417 may be any type of force sensor 417 knownto those skilled in the art, such as a strain gauge, a capacitivesensor, a resistive sensor, an optical sensor, and so on. If the forcesensor 417 is a capacitive sensor, for example, changes in capacitancemay be sensed by the sensor 417 and output as an electrical outputsignal to the processor. In one embodiment, the force sensor is a straingauge. The output signal produced by the force sensor 417 is received bya processor. More discussion regarding force sensors as components of apivoting input device is provided with respect to FIGS. 11A-11E below.

In one embodiment, a processor is electrically connected to the inputdevice 401, for example to the force sensor 417. In one embodiment, theprocessor is disposed within an enclosure of an electronic deviceincorporating the input device 401.

The output signal generated by the force sensor 417 allows the processorto control, for example, the electromagnet 440 (or other actuator) toeffect actuation of the button 410 and may also be used as a systeminput to the electronic device. For example, the force sensor output maybe used to indicate that a user has pressed or otherwise interacted withthe button 410 and thus control or change some function of theelectronic device.

The processor also may control any of several inputs to theelectromagnet 440 to vary the magnetic field generated by theelectromagnet 440. For example, the processor may control the currentrunning through the wire of the actuator 440. Generally, an increasedcurrent will result in an increase in magnetic field strength, therebymoving the permanent magnet 426 more quickly and increasing the hapticoutput's strength.

The processor may control additional aspects of the electromagnet 440.For example, upon receipt of the force sensor's 417 signal, theprocessor may power up the electromagnet and/or alter the state of theelectromagnet so as to ready the electromagnet 440 to generate amagnetic field to actuate the button 410. Such a scenario may occur ifthe electromagnet is consistently powered on but at a level thatgenerates a magnetic field of a size and/or strength that does not pivotthe permanent magnet 426. Upon receipt of the output signal from theforce sensor 417, the processor may control the electromagnet 440 tomove from stand-by status to a full power-on mode, thereby actuating thebutton 410 by moving the permanent magnet 426. In some embodiments, theinput device 401 may be configured to actuate (e.g., the button moves)only upon receiving an input exceeding a threshold force level, belowwhich no actuation is triggered. The processor may also receive anoutput signal from a touch sensor (discussed below with respect to FIG.6.) Additional description of processor operations is found below withrespect to FIG. 12.

In some embodiments, motion of the permanent magnet 426 within theelectromagnet 440 may be sensed by measuring the back electromotiveforce (EMF) of the electromagnet. Generally, the EMF induced in theelectromagnet will vary with a magnitude of the permanent magnet's 426travel. Further, as a user presses harder on the input surface 412 orotherwise more rigidly constrains the input surface with his or herfinger, the permanent magnet's travel reduces. Thus, if a user has a“stiff” input, the input structure 410 (e.g., button) travel isconstrained and this may be sensed by measuring the back EMF of theelectromagnet 440 via a sensor. A user may provide a stiff input if theuser is exerting high force on the input surface 412, is wearing gloves,has dry skin, a calloused finger, and so on. Generally, conditions thatyield a stiff input also reduce sensitivity to haptic output.Accordingly, when the back EMF of the electromagnet 440 is exceeds athreshold, a processing unit of the input device 401 may directadditional power to the electromagnet 440 to increase the force andperceptibility of haptic output.

The button 410 may be positioned in an opening along an exterior surfaceof an electronic device, such that the button presents an input surfaceto a user. The button 410 may be conformal with the exterior surface, ormay project from the exterior surface of a host electronic device. Inone embodiment, the button 410 is oblong and fits along an exterior edgeof an electronic device, such as a mobile phone.

The button 410 may actuate (e.g., move) in any of several ways. In theembodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C, the button 410 pivots off the major axis 439of the input device 401, which is generally perpendicular to its pivotaxis. However, other configurations are possible. For example, thebutton 410 may be configured to actuate along a minor axis. In someembodiments, the button 410 may actuate in a seesaw manner. In someembodiments, the button 410 moves along a surface or edge of a hostelectronic device.

In one embodiment, although the button 410 may actuate, the actuation isnot required to register a button input to an electronic device, such asto register a button input by a processor of an electronic device.Stated another way, the physical movement or actuation of the button 410is not required to register a button on or off input. Instead, thebutton actuation is effected to provide a type of haptic feedback to theuser.

The button 410 may have a variety of shapes, including defining a curvedor convex input surface 412, and/or may be rectangular, square, and soon. As another example, the input surface 412 may be substantially flat.The input surface 412 and/or other parts of the button 410 may includetexture such as bumps, ridges, or the like. The button 410 may haveradiused, beveled, or flat edges. Generally, the smaller the curvatureof the input surface 412, the greater the shear (e.g., transversedisplacement) of the user's skin contacting the input surface and thusthe greater the perceptibility of the haptic output. Accordingly, travelof planar input surfaces 412 may be more easily perceived by a user thanthe same travel of a curved input surface. The curvature of the inputsurface 412 may be selected to impart a particular haptic output orparticular perceptibility of a haptic output.

Generally, if the curvature of the input surface 412 equals thecurvature of an arc segment along which the input surface 412 travelsduring rotation of the input structure 410 about the pivot, the skin ofa user's finger in contact with the input surface 412 experiences purelytangential motion from the input surface. The “arc segment” is theportion of a circle through which a point on the input surface moveswhile the input structure rotates. Put another way, if every point of aninput surface 412 lies on a single arc circumscribed by the entirety ofthe input surface 412 while haptic output is provided, then thecurvature of the input surface equals the curvature of an arc segment.Put still another way, if the distance from the pivot 424 to every pointof the input surface within the rotational plane is equal, then thecurvature of the input surface 412 matches the curvature of the arcsegment during rotation. Purely tangential motion of the input surface412 against a user's skin yields a high degree of skin shear and aunique feeling of haptic output. Generally, such haptic output isindistinguishable or near-indistinguishable from a “click” or depress ofa typical button that moves in the direction of an input force.

By changing the curvature of the input surface 412, the feel of thehaptic output may be varied. The more the curvature of the input surfacevaries from the arc segment along which the input surface 412 travelsduring rotation, the more the haptic output feels like a “rocking”motion to a user as opposed to a “clicking” or depressing/collapsingmotion. The curvature of the input surface 412 may be tuned to provideparticular haptic outputs, as desired or necessary.

FIGS. 4A-C illustrate another embodiment of a pivoting input device 501.The pivoting input device 501 is similar to the embodiment of FIGS.4A-4C except that the pivoting input device 501 includes a retainer 550and gasket 522 coupled to an upper portion of a button 510 (or otherinput structure), and employs a pair of pins 554 rather than pivots. Thepins 554 fit between the body 530 and the button 510, and allow thebutton and permanent magnet 526 to rotate relative to the body 530.

The button 510 defines an input surface 512 and incorporates a forcesensor 517, although in other embodiments the force sensor may bepositioned in different areas as described above with respect to FIGS.4B-4C. The input surface 512 of button 510 may be touched, pressed, orotherwise interacted with by a user. The button 510 engages the retainer550, which is located below the button 510. A gasket 522 is disposedbelow the retainer 550 and above pins 554.

The retainer 550 may be disposed or positioned between the button 510and the body 530. More specifically, the retainer 550 may be positionedat a first end of the body 530, between an edge of the body adjacent thefirst body surface 533 and an outer edge of the button 510. The retainermay conceal the pins 542, permanent magnet 526, and/or electromagnet 540from view when the input device 501 is installed in an electronicdevice. The retainer may contrast with the button 510 to enhancevisibility of the button and/or retainer. This may call attention to thebutton 510, thereby indicating to a user where he or she can provideinput.

The gasket 522 is positioned below the retainer 550. In someembodiments, it may encircle the retainer 550 and/or a portion of thebutton 510, although this is not necessary. The gasket 522 may provide aseal between the button 510 and the interior volume 544 of theelectromagnet 540. A “seal,” as used herein, may be used to refer toclosing off an opening or a connection. When referenced to a part orcomponent, the term “seal” may refer to an element or a group ofelements that blocks or inhibits the ingress or entry of foreign debrisor contaminants.

The body 530 includes an upper body 532 and a lower body 536. A portionof the upper body 532 has a reduced thickness and is encircled by anelectromagnet 540. The lower body 536 may be attached to a structurewithin an enclosure of a host electronic device, or directly to theenclosure itself, in order to anchor the input device 501 to theelectronic device.

The pins 554 connect the body 530 to the permanent magnet 526 (or, insome embodiments, the button 510). Each pin 554 extends into the body530 and also extends into the electromagnet 526 or button 510. The pins554 are axially aligned with one another and are positioned on oppositeends of the electromagnet 526 or button 510. The pins 554 allow thebutton to rotate relative to the body 530, similar to the pivots in theembodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C.

The permanent magnet 526 is attached to a lower surface of the button510. The permanent magnet 526 may be rigidly attached to the button 510,such that the permanent magnet 526 moves or displaces in concert withthe button 510. The permanent magnet 526 may be affixed to the button510 by a connector as with the embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C, or may beaffixed directly to the button 510. As shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, theelectromagnet 526 is affixed directly to the body 510.

The button 510 pivots relative to the body 530 about the pins 554. Thepins 554 may rotate within an interior volume disposed within the body530 and/or rotate within an interior volume disposed within the button510. In one embodiment, the pins 554 may be fixed and not rotate withinan interior volume disposed within the body 530 or within an interiorvolume disposed within the button 510.

The electromagnet 540 is positioned relative to the permanent magnet 526such that a magnetic field generated by the electromagnet 540 passesthrough the permanent magnet 526. As with prior embodiments, thepermanent magnet 526 may move (e.g., rotate) when the electromagnet 540generates its magnetic field. The electromagnet 540 encircles the body530, as previously mentioned. The electromagnet 540 has a sidewall 546.

As discussed with regards to the embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C, thepositioning of the permanent magnet relative to the electromagnetinfluences the operation or actuation of the button. More specifically,the magnetic interaction between the electromagnet 540 and the permanentmagnet 526 is influenced by the relative positioning of the permanentmagnet 526 with respect to the electromagnet 540. In the embodiment ofFIGS. 5A-5C, the lower surface 528 of the permanent magnet 526 ispositioned within the electromagnet 540 while a portion of the permanentmagnet projects above the electromagnet.

The electromagnet 540 may be formed from multiple wire windings, similarto the electromagnet 440 of the embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C. In someembodiments, an actuator other than an electromagnet 540 may be used.For example, an actuator made of a shape-memory alloy, such as nitinol,may be used. The nitinol may be heated by an electric current, as oneexample; once the nitinol is heated sufficiently, its shape may change.The nitinol may be affixed to the button 510 such that a change in shapeof the nitinol exerts sufficient force to rotate the button 510 aboutthe pins 554 extending through the pivot point 525. In some embodiments,piezoelectric actuators and/or reluctance actuators may be used. Othermechanical (e.g., springs, levers, detents, and the like) or electrical(such as electrostatic) actuators may be employed in this or any otherembodiment discussed herein instead of electromagnets and/or magnets.

FIGS. 5B-5C are simplified cross-sectional views of the input device 510shown in FIG. 5A and illustrate actuation of the device. In thecross-sectional view of FIG. 5B, which is taken along line 5B-5B of FIG.5A, the button 510 and attached permanent magnet 526, are depicted in afirst neutral, unactuated position. FIG. 5C shows the button 510 andpermanent magnet 526 is a second, actuated position. The button 510actuates or pivots between the first button position and the secondbutton position in response to motion of the permanent magnet 526 causedby a magnetic field generated by the electromagnet 540, as discussedabove with respect to FIGS. 4A-4C.

As discussed, the button 510 rotates about a pivot point 525 defined bythe pins 554 and thus rotates, tilts, or pivots relative to the body530. The body 530 may be disposed within a host electronic device (see,for example, FIG. 6) and remain stable with respect to the electronicdevice.

Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C, when no electric current isflowing through the wire windings of the electromagnet 540, no magneticfield is generated by the electromagnet 540, and the permanent magnet526 is positioned in a neutral position, with one end approximately inthe middle of the electromagnet's interior volume 544 as shown in FIG.5B. However, when the electromagnet 540 is turned on, the permanentmagnet 526 is influenced by the magnetic field and pivots/rotates withinthe interior volume 544 of the wire windings of the electromagnet 540.More specifically, an end of the permanent magnet 526 moves closer toone side of the electromagnet 540. This causes the button to likewisemove, albeit in an opposite direction, to its actuated position.

The permanent magnet 526 is influenced by the magnetic field so as topivot to an angle 511 from a body centerline 539. The angle 511 isdefined by the button centerline 519 and the body centerline 539. Thebutton centerline 519 and the body centerline 539 intersect at the pivotpoint 525. The pivot point 525 is positioned at the axial centerline ofthe pair of pins 554. The button 510 may also rotate in a directionopposite to that shown in FIG. 5C. The pivot point 525 defines a pivotaxis; the pivot axis is generally parallel to the input surface.

The permanent magnet 526, when influenced by the magnetic field, movesfrom its neutral position of FIG. 5B to its actuated position, as shownin FIG. 5C. In its neutral position, the permanent magnet's 526centerline 519 is generally aligned with a major axis of the inputdevice 501, as is a centerline of the button 510. In the actuatedposition shown in FIG. 5C, the centerline 519 of the button 512 andpermanent magnet 526 is offset from the major axis 539 of the inputdevice 501 by an angle 511. The angle between the centerline of thebutton 512 and the major axis 539 is generally the same as the anglebetween the centerline of the permanent magnet 526 and the major axis539.

The button/permanent magnet centerline 519 and the major axis 539intersect at a pivot point 525. The pivot point 525 is defined by theposition of the pins 554; the pins 554 are not visible in FIGS. 5B-5Cbut are shown in FIG. 5A. The permanent magnet 526, and thus the button510, rotates about the pivot point 525 in a plane defined by the majoraxis 539 and the minor axis 555 of the input device 401. The directionof rotation about the pivot point 525 may change with the direction ofcurrent passing through the electromagnet 540; thus, the button 510 andpermanent magnet 526 may both rotate in two directions. As previouslymentioned, the permanent magnet 526 and button 510 generally move inopposite directions about the pivot point 525 and any associated pins554, although they both rotate either clockwise or counterclockwisetogether about the pivot point 525. Such rotation (whether a singlemotion in one direction or oscillation) generates haptic feedback to auser, as described above.

The embodiment shown in FIGS. 5A-5C may incorporate a force sensor 517.The function of the force sensor 517 and its operation are similar tothe function and operation of the force sensor 417 described withrespect to FIGS. 4A-4C.

FIG. 6 is a cross-section of another embodiment of a pivoting inputdevice 601. The pivoting input device 601 is similar to the embodimentof FIGS. 4A-4C except that the pivoting input device 601 includes agasket 652 coupled to an upper portion of a button 610, and a touchsensor 619 in addition to a force sensor 617. The touch sensor may bepositioned on the input surface 612, at an edge of the button 610, belowthe button 610, and so on (as may the force sensor 617). The button 610of the pivoting input device 601 is fitted within an opening 604 of anenclosure 603 of an electronic device 600.

The button 610 is an input structure that defines an input surface 612.A permanent magnet 626 is attached to a lower surface of the button 610.The permanent magnet 626 may be rigidly attached to the button 610, suchthat permanent magnet 626 moves or displaces in concert with the button610, as discussed above with respect to other embodiments.

Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C, the button 610 pivots relativeto the body 630 about one or more pivots 624 located below the inputsurface 612 of the button 610. The pivots 624 are attached to body 630on each of two sides of the button 610, although a single pivot may runthrough or below the button.

The button 610 defines a groove, annulus, or other groove or recess, inwhich a gasket 652 is seated. The gasket 652 encircles the button 610and functions as a seal between the button 610 and the opening 604 ofthe electronic device 600.

The body 630 secures the pivots 624 and surrounds the electromagnet 640.Each of the pivots 624 are disposed on an upper surface of the body 630.The body 630 may be attached to a structure within the interior volume644 of the electronic device 600 or directly to the enclosure 603.

The electromagnet 640 is disposed within, and attached to, the body 630.As discussed above, an actuator other than the electromagnet 640 may beincorporated into the pivoting input device 601 in order to providehaptic output.

Generally, the input device 601 operates as discussed with respect toFIGS. 4A-4C, in that the electromagnet 640 generates a magnetic fieldthat tilts or rotates the permanent magnet 626 and button 610 about thepivots 624. Haptic feedback may be provided to a user through the button610 as described above; this haptic feedback may be a single motion (forexample, a “click”) or oscillation. Likewise, operation of the forcesensor 617 is analogous to operation of the force sensor 417 of FIGS.4A-4C. The touch sensor 619 may operate in place of, or in addition to,the force sensor 417 to sense an input. The touch sensor 619 may alsofunction as a proximity sensor or may be replaced by a proximity sensorin some embodiments, or may be omitted entirely. The electromagnet 640may remain off until the touch sensor 619 detects an input, or aproximity sensor detects an object (such as a finger, stylus, or thelike) near the input surface 612.

In some embodiments, the proximity sensor may be fitted to orincorporated into the enclosure 603. In one embodiment, the proximitysensor is disposed within the interior volume 644 of the enclosure 603and/or is embedded in the input surface 612.

FIG. 7 is a sample exploded view of portions of a pivoting input device701 and a portion of an enclosure 703 of an electronic device.

One or more openings 704 are defined in the enclosure 703. The opening704 is shaped to receive a button 710 of the input device 701. Morespecifically an upper portion of button 710, when fitted within opening704, protrudes or projects from the enclosure 703. As previouslydiscussed the button 710 defines an input surface 712. The input surface712 may protrude from, or be accessible through, the opening 704. Aforce sensor (not shown in FIG. 7) may be positioned within the button710 below the input surface, on a mounting plate supporting the inputdevice 701, below the button 710 and input surface in another location,on a sidewall of the enclosure 703, and so on.

Gasket 762 is shaped to fit around a perimeter of the button 710. Morespecifically, gasket 762 fits around and/or contacts a groove defined byone or more of the set of shelves 418, 420 and collar 416, as describedwith respect to the embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C. For example, with respectto FIG. 4B, in one embodiment, the gasket 762 may be disposed on secondshelf 420 and encircle first shelf 418. In one embodiment, the gasket762 may be disposed on second shelf 420 and encircle both first shelf418 and collar 416. Returning to FIG. 7, the gasket 762 may bepositioned around button 710 and below the enclosure 703.

The permanent magnet 726 is below the button 710 and attached to a lowersurface of the button 710. In one embodiment, the permanent magnet 726is attached to the button 710 by way of a connector, such as theconnector 422 described with respect to the embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C.In other embodiments, the permanent magnet 726 is attached to the button710 directly.

Electromagnet 740 fits around a boss 706 of a mounting plate 732, andgenerally sits within the body 730. A front portion of the body 730 isremoved in order to show the boss 706. One or more pivot points 725 aredefined on the top of the body 730. The electromagnet 740 may beconnected to the body 730, which in turn may be attached to an enclosureof an electronic device or a structure (such as the mounting plate 732)that is affixed to, or stationary with respect to, the enclosure.Likewise, a pivot 724 or pivots may connect the electromagnet 740 orbutton 710 to the body, as discussed above. As shown in FIG. 7 anddiscussed elsewhere herein, the pivot(s) 724 are generally below thebutton 710, or at least below the input surface 712 of the button.

The combined button 710 and gasket 762, with attached permanent magnet726, are positioned such that at least a portion of the permanent magnetis received within an inner volume of the electromagnet 740.

As discussed above, the configuration of an electromagnet and therelative positioning of a permanent magnet to the electromagnetdetermine the kinematics of the permanent magnet (and thus the buttonattached to the permanent magnet.) More specifically, differentconfigurations of the electromagnet produce different magnetic fieldconfigurations, and different relative positioning between theelectromagnet and the permanent magnet result in different responses tothe magnetic field.

FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate another sample pivoting input device 801. Thepivoting input device 801 is similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C.Here, the pivoting input device 801 employs one or more pins 824affixing the button 810 to the electromagnet 840, and the electromagnet840 is positioned entirely below the permanent magnet 826. The pins 824allow the button 810 to rotate relative to a host electronic device.Note that FIG. 8B is a cross-section taken along line 8B-8B of FIG. 8A.

With attention to FIGS. 8A-8B, the pivoting input device 801 includes abutton 810 attached to a permanent magnet 826 by one or more pins 824.The button 810 also is attached by the more pins 824 to a central postaffixed to the base 838 or one or both of the sidewalls (the post isomitted in order to show details of the input device 801). Generally,there is a central post at each end of the button but only one isvisible in FIG. 8A. The pins 824 also pass through a permanent magnet826 that is affixed to the button 810. As with other embodiments, thebutton 810 defines an input surface 812 that may be touched or pressedby a user.

Sidewalls 832, 834 are positioned on either side of the permanent magnet826; the sidewalls 832, 834 are separated from the permanent magnet 826by a gap. The sidewalls may be made from a ferritic (or magnetic)material and function to provide a path for, and contain, the magneticfield 846 generated by the electromagnet 840, as discussed below. Insome embodiments the sidewalls are made from a non-ferritic material. Insome embodiments, the sidewalls 832, 834 are magnetic and repel thepermanent magnet 826 when the permanent magnet is in its neutralposition, thereby keeping the permanent magnet in such a position.

The sidewalls 832, 834 may be mounted to the electromagnet 840, which inturn may be mounted on a base 838. Accordingly, the electromagnet 840 ispositioned below the permanent magnet 826. The central post(s) arelikewise typically mounted to the base 838. The base, in turn, may beattached to an enclosure of an electronic device.

Generally and as shown in FIGS. 8A-8B, the button 810 does not contacteither sidewall 832, 834 in its neutral position or during operation.Likewise, the permanent magnet 826 does not contact the sidewalls 832,834 in its neutral position. The permanent magnet 826 may contact thesidewalls during operation, or the magnetic field may be controlled toprevent such contact.

In order to cause the permanent magnet 826 and button 810 to pivot aboutthe pins 824, the electromagnet 840 is actuated. The electromagnetproduces a magnetic field 846 as represented by the dashed arrows inFIG. 8B. It should be appreciated that flux of the magnetic field may bereversed from the direction shown in FIG. 8B as well. The magnetic fieldpasses through, and is optionally shaped by, the sidewalls 832, 834. Putanother way, the sidewalls 832, 834 may form part of a return path forthe magnetic field.

The magnetic field 846 also passes through the permanent magnet 826. Thepermanent magnet 826 experiences force along the field lines of themagnetic field 846. Since the permanent magnet 826 is constrained by thepin(s) 824, it cannot translate or otherwise move laterally. Rather, theforce causes the permanent magnet 826 to rotate or pivot about thepin(s) 824. As with other embodiments, this induces an opposite pivotingmotion in the button 810 attached to the permanent magnet. This, inturn, may provide haptic and/or visual feedback to a user.

The direction and strength of the magnetic field 846 may be controlledto re-center and stabilize the permanent magnet 826 (and thus theaffixed button 810) in its neutral position.

FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate another embodiment of a pivoting input device901. FIG. 9B is a cross-section taken along line 9B-9B of FIG. 9A. Thepivoting input device 901 is similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 8A-8B,but here the electromagnet 940 encircles the permanent magnet 926, andthe permanent magnet 926 is attached to the button 910 at locations ator adjacent to the pins 924. The pins 924 allow the button 910 to rotaterelative to the electromagnet 940. The electromagnet may be at leastpartially contained within a body 930 through which the pins 924 pass.The electromagnet 940 is generally stationary with respect to the body930 while the button 910 and permanent magnet 926 rotate and/ortranslate relative to the body during actuation.

The permanent magnet 926 is positioned in a neutral position within, andapproximately in the middle of, an interior volume of the electromagnet940. The permanent magnet 926 is generally cylindrical or rectangular,optionally with rounded corners. The permanent magnet 926 is configuredto fit, at each end point, around a respective pin 924. The permanentmagnet 926 and the electromagnet 940 are fitted between opposing sidesof end bodies 939.

With attention to FIG. 9B, when a current flows through the windings ofthe electromagnet 940, the electromagnet 940 produces a magnetic field946 extending around and encircling the permanent magnet 926, resultingin a torque or twisting force on the permanent magnet 926. This rotatesthe permanent magnet 926 about the pins 924, thereby rotating oractuating the attached button 901.

FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate another embodiment of a pivoting input device1001. FIG. 10B is a cross-section taken along line 10B-10B of FIG. 10A.The pivoting input device 1001 is similar to the embodiment of FIGS.9A-9B except that the electromagnet 1040 is rotated 90 degrees withrespect to the prior embodiment. The electromagnet 1040 encircles thepermanent magnet 1026. The permanent magnet 1026 is attached to thebutton 1010, as with prior embodiments. A set of two pins 1024 arelocated at opposite ends of the button 1010 and attached to the body1030. The pins 1024 allow the button 1010 to rotate relative to the bodyand any electronic device to which the body is attached. With attentionto FIG. 10A, the permanent magnet 1026 is configured to fit within theelectromagnet 1040. The permanent magnet 1026 is positioned in a neutralposition within an interior volume of the electromagnet 1040.

With attention to FIG. 10B, the electromagnet 1040 produces, when acurrent flows through the windings of the electromagnet 1040, a magneticfield 1046 extending around and encircling the permanent magnet 1026 inlongitudinal planes, resulting in a torque or twist force on thepermanent magnet 1026. This rotates the permanent magnet 1026 about thepins 1024, thereby rotating or actuating the button 1010. In theorientation shown in FIG. 10B, the magnetic field extends in and out ofthe page (e.g., is generally in a plane parallel to the pins 1024),while rotation of the permanent magnet 1026 is in-plane with thecross-section as shown.

FIGS. 11A-11E illustrate various embodiments of anelectromagnetically-driven pivoting input device with a force sensingcapability. The force sensing capability may be coupled toelectromagnetic components of the button, or may operate independentlyof the electromagnetic components. The force sensor may be any ofseveral types known in the art, including Hall effect sensors, strainsensors, capacitive sensors, and optical sensors.

With attention to FIG. 11A, another embodiment of a pivoting inputdevice 1101 is depicted. The pivoting input device 1101 is similar tothe embodiment of FIGS. 4A-4C except that the pivoting input device 1101includes a Hall effect force sensor 1170 and the button 1110 includes apair of pivots 1124 integrated with the button 1110.

The pivoting input device 1101 is depicted as a button system withbutton 1110 fitted to an enclosure 1103 of an electronic device. Apermanent magnet 1126 is attached to a lower surface of the button 1110.The permanent magnet 1126 may be rigidly attached to the button 1110,such that permanent magnet 1126 moves or displaces in concert with thebutton 1110.

The button 1110 pivots relative to the body 1130 by way of an integratedpair of pivots 1124. The pair of pivots 1124 are formed from the button1110 on a lower surface of the button 1110. Each of the two pivots 1124are positioned between the lower surface of the button 1110 and an uppersurface of the body 1130. An input surface of the button 1110 may betouched, pressed, or otherwise interacted with by a user.

The electromagnet 1140 is configured to attach to body 1130 andpositioned relative to the permanent magnet 1126 such that a magneticfield generated by the electromagnet 1140 is received by the permanentmagnet 1126 sufficient to displace or move the permanent magnet 1126.The electromagnet 1140 is positioned to encircle the body 1130.

A Hall effect sensor 1170 is positioned on a lower portion of the body1130, below the permanent magnet 1126. The Hall effect sensor 1170 maybe positioned such that a portion of the Hall effect sensor 1170 iswithin a portion of the interior volume defined by the electromagnet1140. In some embodiments, the Hall effect sensor 1170 is positionedentirely below the electromagnet 1140. Other positions for the Halleffect sensor 1170 are possible, such as along an edge of the body 1130.

Generally, a Hall effect sensor provides a voltage output in response toa magnetic field. In one Hall effect sensor configuration, a metal stripprovides a current along a length. In the presence of a magnetic field,the flowing electrons of the current will deflect to an edge of themetal strip, perpendicular to the metal strip length, causing ameasurable voltage change across the width of the metal strip.

The Hall effect sensor 1170 may be calibrated to detect a change inmagnetic field caused by a vertical movement of the button 1110. Morespecifically, a vertical movement of the button 1110 (caused by, forexample, a force input to a surface of the button 1110), will verticallymove the permanent magnet 1126 attached to the button 1110, therebycausing a change in the magnetic field of the electromagnet 1140, asmeasured by the Hall effect sensor 1170. The Hall effect sensor 1170 maybe calibrated to remove magnetic field change measurements caused byrotation of the button 1110 about pivots 1124, and therefore solelymeasure an input force imparted by a user to a surface of the button1110. The measurements of the Hall effect sensor may be output to aprocessor of the electronic device such that a determination of theinput force may be generated. More discussion of the processor of a hostelectronic device is provided below with respect to FIG. 12.

With attention to FIG. 11B, another embodiment of a pivoting inputdevice 1101 is depicted. The pivoting input device 1101 is similar tothe embodiment of FIG. 11A except that a set of strain gauges 1172, 1173are provided. The set of strain gauges 1172, 1173 provide a measurementof force input to the button 1110. The pivoting input device 1101 ispositioned to fit with an enclosure 1103 of an electronic device.

A pair of first strain gauges 1173 are positioned between a lowersurface of the enclosure 1103 of an electronic device and the body 1130of the pivoting input device 1101. A second strain gauge 1172 is mountedto a lower surface of the body 1130. Other locations for the set ofstrain gauges 1172, 1173 are possible, such as between a lower surfaceof the pair of pivots 1124 and an upper surface of the body 1130receiving the pair of pivots 1124.

Generally, a strain gauge measures a change in electrical resistance inresponse to a deformation. The resistance change may be correlated tothe stress or force that caused the deformation or induced strain in thestrain gauge. A common strain gauge includes a set of conductive wiresarranged in a long, thin strip.

In some embodiments, the first and second strain gauges 1172, 1173measure different components of a force, or forces exerted alongdifferent axes. Thus, the first strain gauge 1172 may measure forcesalong a first axis while the second strain gauge 1173 measures forcesexerted along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. Themeasurements of the strain gauges 1172, 1173 may be output to aprocessor of the electronic device such that a determination of theinput force may be generated.

With attention to FIG. 11C, another embodiment of a pivoting inputdevice 1101 is depicted. The pivoting input device 1101 is similar tothe embodiment of FIG. 11A except that a capacitive gap sensor isprovided. The capacitive gap sensor provides a measurement of forceinput to the button 1110.

The capacitive gap sensor includes a first capacitive plate 1175 coupledto a first body 1174, a second capacitive plate 1177 coupled to a secondbody 1176, and a gap 1178 between the first capacitive plate 1175 andthe second capacitive plate 1177.

Generally, a capacitive gap sensor measures a change in capacitancebetween two parallel electrically charged plates. The capacitancechanges with distance between the plates. The change in capacitance maybe correlated to the change in force that caused the change in distancebetween the plates. The gap may be an air gap or may be fitted with amaterial, such as a compressible material and/or a dielectric material.

With a force input to a surface of the button 1110, the gap 1178 betweenthe first capacitive plate 1175 and the second capacitive plate 1177will be reduced, causing a change in capacitance. The change incapacitance may be output to a processor of the electronic device suchthat a determination of the input force may be generated.

With attention to FIG. 11D, another embodiment of a pivoting inputdevice 1101 is depicted. The pivoting input device 1101 is similar tothe embodiment of FIG. 11A except that an induction loop formed bycomponents of the pivoting input device 1101 is used to provide ameasurement of force input to the button 1110.

A vertical movement of the permanent magnet 1126 will cause a change tothe magnetic field 1146 generated by the electromagnet 1140. If themagnetic field 1146 is kept constant, a change to the voltage of theelectromagnet 1140 will occur. The change in voltage 1180 may becorrelated to the vertical movement of the permanent magnet 1126, whichin turn may be correlated to a force input to a surface of the button1110. The change in voltage may be output to a processor of theelectronic device such that a determination of the input force may begenerated.

In one embodiment, the permanent magnet 1126 may comprise a first magnetand a second magnet. The first magnet may be used to rotate an attachedbutton 1110 as described in prior embodiments. The second magnet may beused in the induction force sensor as described above. Morespecifically, movement of the second magnet, caused by a user input toan input surface of the button 1110, is measured by a voltage 1180change of the electromagnet 1140, which is calibrated to a magnitude offorce input.

With attention to FIG. 11E, another embodiment of a pivoting inputdevice 1101 is depicted. The pivoting input device 1101 is similar tothe embodiment of FIG. 11A except that a pair of optical sensors 1191,1192 are provided. The pair of optical sensors 1191, 1192 provide ameasurement of force input to the button 1110.

Generally, an optical sensor measures distance by measuring time ofreceipt of a transmitted signal. The time is reduced with reduceddistance. A reduced distance may in turn be correlated to a forcerequired to reduce the distance, and thus provide a measure of force.

A first optical sensor 1191 is positioned on a lower surface of thepermanent magnet 1126. A second optical sensor 1192 is positioned on aninside upper surface of the body 1130. The first optical sensor 1191 maybe aligned vertically with the second optical sensor 1192 such that thefirst optical sensor 1191 cooperates with the second optical sensor1192. For example, the first optical sensor 1191 may broadcast anoptical signal sensed by the second optical sensor 1192, and vice versa.The measures of changed distance provided by the first optical sensor1191 and/or the second optical sensor 1192 are correlated to a forcerequired to change the measured distance, thereby providing a measure offorce input to an input surface of the button 1110. The measurements ofthe first optical sensor 1191 and/or the second optical sensor 1192 maybe output to a processor of the electronic device such that adetermination of the input force may be generated.

Other configurations of optical sensors are possible. For example, thefirst optical sensor 1191 may be replaced with a reflective surfacewhich receives and reflects an optical emission from the second opticalsensor 1192. The reflective surface, disposed on the permanent magnet1126, will move vertically with vertical movement of the button 1110.The second optical sensor 1192 will detect the vertical movement of thereflective surface, and thus vertical movement of the permanent magnet1126 and the button 1110, by detecting a reduced travel time of anoptical emission.

As mentioned above, the force sensor may be any of several types knownin the art, to include those described above with respect to FIGS.11A-11E. Other force sensor types may include piezoelectric forcesensors, linear variable differential transducers, load cells such aspneumatic load cells and hydraulic load cells, etc.

The force sensor may be used for purposes other than or in addition toforce measurement. For example, the force sensor may be used to preparethe pivoting input device to move or otherwise operate theelectromagnetically-sensitive button by, for example, turning on theelectromagnet upon receipt of a threshold level of force by the button.In another example, the force sensor may be used to activate analternate notification, such as an audio notification, to the user uponreceipt of a threshold level of force by the button.

In one embodiment, the kinematics of the button movement are influencedor coupled to the level of force measured by the force sensor. Forexample, a first level of force received may result in a button rotationof a first rotation speed, whereas a higher second level of forcereceived may result in a button rotation of a second higher rotationspeed.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example pivoting input device 1200 according tovarious embodiments. The pivoting input device 1200 includes an inputstructure 1202 (such as a button), a sensor 1203, a processor 1204, anactuator 1206 such as an electromagnet, and optionally a permanentmagnet 1208. A user applies an input to the input structure 1202. Thepresence of the user input is identified by the sensor 1203 which inturn sends a signal to the processor 1204.

The processor 1204 determines the appropriate response for theidentified input. For example, for a pivoting input device 1200 similarto the embodiment of FIGS. 5A-5C, the processor 1204 may determine ifthe input force exceeds a selectable threshold value. If the thresholdvalue is exceeded, the processor 1204 instructs the actuator 1206 torotate the input structure 1202. If the actuator 1206 is anelectromagnet, it may generate a magnetic field, the magnetic field inturn moving the permanent magnet 1208 and thus moving the inputstructure 1202 from a neutral position to an actuated position orotherwise providing a haptic and/or visual output to a user, such as avibration of the input structure 1202. If, however, the input force doesnot exceed the threshold value, the actuator 1206 does not generate anymagnetic field and the input structure 1202 remains in its unactuatedposition. In some embodiments, no threshold force value is considered,and any non-zero input force would trigger actuation of the inputdevice. Note that a threshold value operation may avoid accidental ornuisance activation of the input device. This is an example of anopen-loop system.

Embodiments alternatively may operate as closed-loop systems. Forexample, a sensor may monitor a pivot angle, degree of rotation, exertedforce, or the like of the input device 1200 while haptic output isprovided. These sensed parameters may be used as feedback for theactuator in order to adjust operation of the input device 1200. As oneexample, more or less power may be provided to the actuator 1206 inorder to adjust rotation of the input structure.

Some embodiments described herein may rotate or oscillate sufficientlyquickly not only to provide a haptic output but also to provide audiooutput. The input structure's 1202 rotation (or other motion) may occurat frequencies that enable audible sound, typically from 20 Hertz to20,000 Hertz. Input waveforms to the actuator 1206 may be shaped toprovide both haptic output and audio output substantiallysimultaneously. For example, the actuator 1206 may rotate the inputstructure 1202 at haptic frequencies for a brief time and then at audiofrequencies for a brief time. So long as each haptic output issufficiently close in time to the next, a continuous haptic sensationmay be felt. Likewise, so long as each audio output is sufficientlyclose in time to the next, a user may perceive continuous audio even ifthe input device 1200 switches to a haptic output in between audiooutputs.

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specificnomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the describedembodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art thatthe specific details are not required in order to practice the describedembodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specificembodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustrationand description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit theembodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to oneof ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations arepossible in view of the above teachings.

What is claimed is:
 1. An input device for use with an electronicdevice, comprising: a button defining an input surface; a force sensorconfigured to sense an input force applied to the input surface along aninput direction oriented perpendicular to the input surface; a permanentmagnet attached to the button; a body; a pivot coupling the body to thebutton, the pivot having a pivot axis, the input direction intersectingthe pivot axis; and an electromagnet adjacent the permanent magnet;wherein the electromagnet is configured to generate a magnetic field inresponse to the force sensor sensing the input force, thereby rotatingthe permanent magnet and the button about the pivot axis to providehaptic feedback to the button.
 2. The input device of claim 1, furthercomprising: the button extends through an enclosure of the electronicdevice; the body is affixed to the electronic device; the body,permanent magnet, and electromagnet are within the enclosure; theelectromagnet defines an interior volume; the permanent magnet is atleast partially within the interior volume; the electromagnet encirclesthe body; and the electromagnet is stationary relative to the body. 3.The input device of claim 1, wherein: the button and permanent magnetrotate about the pivot axis and within a plane defined by a major axisand a minor axis of the input device; and the pivot axis is parallel tothe input surface.
 4. The input device of claim 1, wherein the permanentmagnet is positioned within a space defined the body.
 5. The inputdevice of claim 1, wherein the button and permanent magnet areconfigured to oscillate to provide the haptic feedback.
 6. The inputdevice of claim 5, wherein: the pivot comprises a pair of pins; and thepair of pins rotate with the permanent magnet.
 7. The input device ofclaim 1, wherein an end of the permanent magnet is positioned within aninterior volume defined by the electromagnet.
 8. The input device ofclaim 1, wherein: the electronic device is a mobile device comprising adisplay; the button is oblong and extends through a sidewall of theelectronic device; and information on the display is modified inresponse to the input force.
 9. An electronic device, comprising: anenclosure defining an opening; a body attached to the enclosure; abutton extending through the opening and defining an input surface, thebutton pivotally attached to the body through a pivot axis; a sensorconfigured to detect an input force applied to the input surface alongan input direction intersecting the pivot axis; a permanent magnetattached to the button and positioned within the enclosure; and anelectromagnet attached to the body, positioned within the enclosure, andencircling the permanent magnet; wherein motion of the button isconfigured to provide haptic feedback at the input surface.
 10. Theelectronic device of claim 9, wherein the electromagnet encircles thebody.
 11. The electronic device of claim 9, wherein: the electromagnetis positioned within the body; and the permanent magnet is positionedwithin the body.
 12. The electronic device of claim 9, furthercomprising a processor disposed in the enclosure; wherein: the sensor isconfigured to generate a signal in response to an input on the inputsurface; the processor is configured to receive the signal from thesensor; and the processor is further configured to activate theelectromagnet in response to receiving the signal from the sensor,thereby moving the button with respect to the body to provide hapticfeedback.
 13. The electronic device of claim 12, wherein: the sensor isa force sensor; and the button moves if the input exceeds a threshold.14. An input device, comprising: an input structure defining an inputsurface; a sensor configured to detect a force applied in a directionoriented into the input surface; a pivot below the input surface andabout which the input structure rotates; and an actuator configured torotate the input structure about the pivot to provide haptic feedback atthe input structure in response to the sensor detecting the force;wherein: rotation of the input structure moves the input surface in adirection substantially transverse to a direction of the force.
 15. Theinput device of claim 14, wherein a major vector of the input surface'smovement is tangential to an object applying the force.
 16. The inputdevice of claim 14, wherein the input surface is curved.
 17. The inputdevice of claim 14, wherein the pivot passes through the input structureand is contained within the actuator.
 18. The input device of claim 14,wherein the pivot limits motion of the input structure to rotation aboutthe pivot.
 19. An input device, comprising: an input structure definingan input surface; a sensor configured to detect a force applied in adirection oriented into the input surface; a pivot below the inputsurface and about which the input structure rotates; and an actuatorconfigured to rotate the input structure about the pivot in response tothe sensor detecting the force; wherein: rotation of the input structuremoves the input surface in a direction substantially transverse to adirection of the force; and wherein: the sensor is a first sensor; theactuator is an electromagnet; the input device further comprises asecond sensor configured to detect a back electromotive force of theelectromagnet; and the electromagnet is configured to receive additionalpower if the back electromotive force exceeds a threshold.
 20. The inputdevice of claim 19, wherein the sensor is a Hall effect sensor.